WATER

Water has astounding physical properties as well as the ability to shape ecosystems, landscapes and societies. But most important, water is essential to all life. Across Binghamton University’s campus, you’ll find various initiatives aimed at protecting and conserving this precious resource.

• New Yorkers have clean, safe and plentiful drinking water thanks, in part, to the efforts of the faculty, students and volunteers at the University’s Center for Integrated Watershed Studies. The center serves as a source of expertise on natural features of watersheds and human effects on them, addressing biological, geological, geographic, economic and societal components at all levels of integration. The center’s activities range from field data collection for scholarly research to policy analysis and education.

• Another way Binghamton is protecting New York’s valuable water resources is through our Nature Preserve. Part of the Susquehanna River Watershed, the Nature Preserve plays a significant role in improving local and regional water quality. Its wetlands mitigate some of the damaging effects from water pollutants, while wetland and forest areas help reduce erosion.

• At a University committed to sustainability, we can’t watch water go down the drain unnecessarily. That’s why Binghamton installed low-flow faucets and toilets across campus, put artificial turf in the Bearcats Sports Complex to cut down on the need for irrigation and is looking at ways to reduce pool water evaporation. In addition, water meters monitor water use throughout campus and alert staff to any potential problems.